FESTIVE PRIDE 9 LGBTQIA+ MOVIES TO LIGHT UP YOUR CHRISTMAS

Celebrate the holiday season with a dose of festive cheer and representation! This year, we’re spotlighting nine incredible films featuring LGBTQIA+ themes, characters, and stories that bring love, laughter, and a touch of magic to your Christmas watchlist. From heartwarming rom-coms to touching dramas and quirky comedies, these movies showcase the joy of connection, family, and being true to yourself. Whether you’re after feel-good vibes, a sprinkle of romance, or something offbeat, there’s something for everyone. Grab a hot drink, cozy up, and let these films fill your holiday season with festive pride and heartfelt storytelling.

Happiest Season (2020)

A heartwarming rom-com that redefines holiday traditions, Happiest Season follows Abby (Kristen Stewart) as she plans to propose to her girlfriend, Harper (Mackenzie Davis), during Christmas at Harper’s family home. But Harper hasn’t come out yet, leading to comedic chaos and touching revelations. With a stellar cast and a mix of humor and heartfelt moments, this film is a joyful exploration of love, family, and being true to

Single All the Way (2021)

This Netflix favorite centers on Peter (Michael Urie), who brings his best friend Nick (Philemon Chambers) home for Christmas to dodge his family’s constant questions about his love life. When a matchmaking scheme emerges, sparks fly, leading to a feel-good story of love and selfdiscovery. Full of festive charm, delightful humor, and a heartwarming cast, this movie celebrates the magic of chosen family and the season’s romance.

Tangerine (2015)

Set on Christmas Eve, Tangerine tells the raw yet humorous story of two transgender sex workers, Sin-Dee and Alexandra, navigating the streets of Los Angeles after one discovers her boyfriend’s infidelity. Shot entirely on an iPhone, this indie gem is groundbreaking for its representation of trans women of color and its bold storytelling. While unconventional, it offers a poignant message about friendship and resilience during the holidays.

Make the Yuletide Gay (2009)

In this charming indie comedy, Olaf “Gunn” Gunnunderson goes home for the holidays, leaving his boyfriend, Nathan, behind. Hilarity ensues when Nathan unexpectedly arrives, forcing Gunn to navigate his closeted family while trying to celebrate Christmas with his true love. With plenty of laughs and heartfelt moments, this film is a delightful mix of festive cheer and a touching coming-out narrative.

The Family Stone (2005)

This classic ensemble dramedy features a family navigating holiday tensions and love. Thad Stone, the gay, deaf son of the family, and his husband provide heartfelt representation in a story of acceptance and family dynamics. With a star-studded cast including Diane Keaton and Sarah Jessica Parker, The Family Stone is both heartwarming and deeply emotional, making it a memorable addition to any festive watchlist.

The Christmas Setup (2020)

The Lifetime Channel’s first LGBTQIA+ Christmas movie, The Christmas Setup follows Hugo (Ben Lewis), who reconnects with his high school crush Patrick (Blake Lee) when his matchmaking mom gets involved. Set against a backdrop of twinkling lights and snow-filled streets, this film combines a cozy holiday vibe with a tender, romantic love story that will warm your heart.

Carol (2015)

Based on Patricia Highsmith’s novel The Price of Salt, Carol is a stunningly crafted romantic drama set during the 1950s holiday season. It follows Therese (Rooney Mara), a young aspiring photographer, and Carol (Cate Blanchett), an elegant woman navigating a difficult divorce, as they fall in love. With breathtaking cinematography and a tender narrative, this film is a masterpiece of longing and love, perfect for the holidays.

Anna and the Apocalypse (2017)

For something completely different, this genredefying musical blends a zombie apocalypse with Christmas cheer. Amid the chaos, Anna (Ella Hunt) and her friends battle for survival, with standout LGBTQIA+ representation in Steph (Sarah Swire), a queer character whose story is treated with care. This British cult classic delivers catchy tunes, dark humor, and heartwarming friendships—perfect for fans of quirky holiday films.

Lez Bomb (2018)

In this Thanksgiving-to-Christmas dramedy, Lauren (Jenna Laurenzo) attempts to come out to her family during the holidays, but her plans are hilariously derailed. With a mix of laugh-outloud moments and touching family dynamics, Lez Bomb is a relatable and heartfelt story about love, identity, and the unpredictability of holiday gatherings.